Remission, no evidence of disease (NED), and relapse 

These are terms used to describe how cancer may behave after treatment. 

Remission and NED 

These terms are often used interchangeably; however, NED means that signs of the cancer are no longer detectable on tests or scans, whereas remission means signs and symptoms of the cancer have reduced (partial remission) or disappeared (complete remission). In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), NED or being in remission does not always mean the patient is cured, so ongoing monitoring is important. Some people remain in remission or have NED for a long time, while for others the cancer may return. 

Relapse 

Relapse is when the cancer returns after a period of remission or begins to grow again after initially responding to treatment. Some people with non-small cell lung cancer have NED or are in remission for a long time, while others may experience the cancer returning. Further treatment may be considered depending on previous therapies and overall health. 

Monitoring 

To monitor remission or detect a relapse, healthcare teams will arrange regular imaging scans (such as CT or MRI), and they may also perform blood tests and physical examinations during and after treatment. Close follow-up is important to help identify any changes early and guide next steps in care. 

References 

1. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of cancer terms. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms. Accessed Mar 4, 2026.  

2. National Cancer Institute. Non-small cell lung cancer treatment (PDQ®)–patient version. https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/patient/non-small-cell-lung-treatment-pdq. Updated May 16, 2025. Accessed Mar 4, 2026.